Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 15:18

"If the world hateth you, ye know that it hath hated me before [it hated] you." — John 15:18 (ASV)

The term “world” (GK 3180) has several uses in John’s writings: the universe as the object of creation (1:10), the materialistic order that allures humans from God , and humankind in general as the object of God’s love (3:16). Here it refers to the mass of unbelievers who are indifferent or hostile to God and his people. Jesus reminds the disciples that in spite of the fact that he has come on an errand of love, the world at large hates him, a fixed attitude that carries over to his disciples as well. The world assumes this attitude because it rejects all who do not conform to its lifestyle.